Confinement Myths Debunked: What New Mothers Need to Know

Your mother-in-law insists you can't shower for a month. Your doctor says good hygiene is important for healing. Your TCM practitioner has a list of dietary restrictions, but you're craving fresh fruit. If you're feeling caught between conflicting advice during your confinement period, you're not the first – and there's actually a middle path.

Confinement practices have supported new mothers for centuries, but that doesn't mean you need to follow every rule exactly as it was generations ago. Knowing why these traditions exist helps you adapt them to your life while still honouring the wisdom behind them. 

What is confinement and why do these practices exist?

If you've just given birth or are preparing for your baby's arrival, you've likely heard about confinement – or "sitting the month" (Zuo Yue Zi in Chinese). This 30-day postpartum (postbirth) recovery period is practised across many Asian cultures, with specific guidelines around diet, rest, and daily activities.

These traditions stem from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which recognises that childbirth depletes your body's Qi (vital energy) and Blood. From a TCM perspective, this postpartum window is crucial – without adequate care during these weeks, you may face long-term concerns like joint pain, digestive issues, or persistent fatigue.

While some rules might feel restrictive, many were born from genuine care to protect mothers during a vulnerable time. As you navigate your postpartum journey, you can honour the wisdom that resonates with you while making choices that fit your lifestyle and wellbeing.

Common confinement myths that may not be right for you

Not every traditional rule fits modern life or medical understanding. Some beliefs have evolved, and it's worth exploring which ones truly serve your recovery.

Myth: You cannot shower or wash your hair for a month

This is perhaps the most well-known confinement rule, yet it's not medically necessary. The original concern stemmed from the belief that cold water could enter your body through open pores, potentially causing joint pain or headaches later.

However, maintaining good hygiene actually supports your postpartum recovery.

You can shower during confinement – simply use warm water and dry your hair thoroughly afterwards. Avoid standing directly under the fan or air conditioning immediately after, as sudden temperature changes may leave you feeling uncomfortable.

Staying clean helps reduce your risk of postbirth infections, particularly around any perineal tears (natural tearing during vaginal delivery) or caesarean incisions (surgical cuts from a C-section).

Beyond the physical benefits, feeling fresh can genuinely lift your mood and sense of wellbeing during these early weeks of motherhood.

Myth: You must stay indoors and avoid all fresh air

Traditional belief holds that exposure to wind or cold air could allow "wind" to enter your body, leading to long-term aches and pains. While rest is crucial during confinement, staying completely indoors for 30 days isn't necessary for healing.

Fresh air and gentle outdoor time can actually benefit your mental health and help prevent postpartum blues. Natural sunlight also helps your body produce vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune function.

The key is moderation and listening to yourself. You could try these easy steps:

• Take short walks in pleasant weather when you feel ready

• Dress warmly and avoid extreme temperatures

• Don't expose yourself to strong winds or heavy rain

• Listen to your body – if you're tired, rest indoors

You don't need to feel confined at home. A gentle stroll around your neighbourhood or sitting in your garden can lift your spirits without affecting your recovery.

Myth: Drinking plain water is harmful after giving birth

You may have heard that plain water causes bloating or water retention and that you should stick to red date tea, longan tea, or other warming beverages instead.

While nourishing herbal teas are beneficial, completely avoiding plain water isn't necessary. Your body needs adequate fluids to recover, particularly if you're breastfeeding. Dehydration can reduce your milk supply and leave you feeling exhausted.

Many new mothers do experience some swelling after delivery – this is normal and usually resolves within a few weeks. Drinking water doesn't cause this. In fact, staying well-hydrated helps your body flush out excess fluids more efficiently.

If it feels more comfortable, you can opt for warm or room-temperature water, which aligns with TCM principles about maintaining body warmth.

Myth: You cannot eat fruits or vegetables during confinement

Traditional confinement advice often warns against fruits and vegetables, particularly "cooling" ones like watermelon or leafy greens – the belief being that these foods could harm your recovery.

While it's wise to focus on warming, nourishing foods, completely avoiding fruits and vegetables means you are missing out on vitamin C for wound healing, fibre to prevent constipation, and minerals for milk production.

You don't need to cut them out completely – just choose wisely. For instance:

• Choose "warming" or neutral fruits like papaya, longan, and cooked apples

• Cook your vegetables rather than eating them raw for easier digestion

• Consult a TCM physician for personalised guidance based on your body’s needs

Myth: You cannot cry, as it would lead to eye problems

You've probably heard that crying during confinement will damage your eyesight. This belief can add unnecessary guilt to an already emotional time.

The truth is, crying won't cause permanent eye damage. Your tears are actually your body's natural way of releasing stress.

That said, you should pay attention to how you're feeling. Persistent sadness or frequent crying could signal postpartum depression. If you find yourself overwhelmed, don't suppress it – reach out to your partner, family, or a healthcare professional. Your mental health matters just as much as your physical recovery.

Myth: You should not turn on the air conditioner

Traditional confinement practices often discourage air conditioning, based on concerns that cold air could harm your body and cause joint pain later. Some believe it disrupts your natural temperature regulation during recovery.

However, in Singapore's tropical climate, avoiding air conditioning for 30 days can make your recovery unnecessarily challenging. Overheating may lead to heat rash, dehydration, and discomfort – none of which support your healing.

You can absolutely use air conditioning during confinement with a few thoughtful adjustments, such as:

• Setting the temperature to 25-26°C

• Avoiding sitting directly under vents

• Wearing long sleeves and trousers

• Drying off completely after showering before entering air-conditioned rooms

Your comfort matters for recovery. There's no need to endure the heat when simple adjustments can keep you comfortable.

If you're feeling uncertain about which confinement practices are right for your situation, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. Our physicians can help you understand which traditions support your recovery and which ones you can safely adapt to fit your needs.

Which traditional confinement practices are actually beneficial?

You don't need to follow every confinement rule, but some traditional practices genuinely support your postpartum recovery. These time-tested methods align with both TCM wisdom and modern medical understanding.

The importance of rest and recovery

This is perhaps the most valuable aspect of confinement – and one that modern medicine fully supports. Your body has just been through the profound experience of pregnancy and childbirth. It needs time to heal.

During the first 30 days postpartum, your uterus contracts back to its normal size, any tears or incisions heal, and your hormone levels adjust. Adequate rest helps speed up this healing, supports your immune system, and allows your body to produce breast milk effectively.

Light movement is helpful for circulation, but this isn't the time for heavy lifting or strenuous activities. Accept help from family members or consider hiring a confinement nanny while you focus on recovering and bonding with your baby. 

Nutritious, warming foods that support healing

Traditional confinement emphasises warming, nourishing foods that help restore your body's Qi and Blood after childbirth. These dietary practices can genuinely support your recovery when chosen thoughtfully.

Focus on nourishing ingredients that support your digestive system, such as:

• Old ginger, black vinegar, sesame oil, and spring onions

• Light, easily digestible foods in the first week

• Gradually incorporate heavier options like pig's trotter in vinegar

Confinement herbs such asDang Gui, Huang Qi, and longan red date tea can help boost Qi and Blood. However, if you have a hot body type, these herbs may overheat your system. A TCM physician can provide tailored guidance based on your unique needs.

If you're unsure which foods are suitable for your recovery, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. We offer a range of services to support your postbirth recovery, including 28-day confinement herbal care and bath as well as 28-day confinement herbal soup or tea.

Limiting visitors to reduce stress and infection risk

Your friends and family are excited to meet your baby, and that's wonderful. But limiting visitors during confinement genuinely protects both you and your newborn. Your immune system is still recovering, your baby's is just developing, and entertaining guests could be exhausting when you're adjusting to a completely new rhythm of life.

It’s completely understandable to politely decline visitors or keep it to close family only. Suggest video calls instead, or let loved ones know they're welcome after your confinement period.

How to create a confinement plan that works for you

A good confinement plan balances traditional wisdom with your personal needs and comfort. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, as what works for others may not suit you.

Start by identifying which practices feel right to you. Perhaps you value nutritious meals and rest but prefer showering daily and getting fresh air – that's completely fine. The goal is supporting your recovery, not rigidly following every rule.

Consider these practical steps:

• Decide whether you'll hire a nanny, rely on family support, or use meal delivery services

• Plan meals around nourishing ingredients while accommodating your preferences

• Set boundaries with visitors and communicate them clearly

• Consult a TCM physician for personalised herbal recommendations 

You might also explore a structured confinement programme that supports different recovery stages – from uterus healing in the first week to digestive wellness and breastfeeding support, followed by overall vitality restoration.

Confinement should support your recovery, not add stress. Listen to your body and don't hesitate to change practices that aren't working for you.

FAQ

Can mothers exercise during confinement?

Strenuous exercise isn't recommended during confinement, as your body needs its energy for healing rather than intense physical activity. When you feel ready, gentle movement like yoga or brisk walking can help improve blood circulation and reduce stress.

Can I shower or have a fan blow at me during confinement?

Yes, you can shower during confinement. Just dry your hair thoroughly and avoid standing directly under the fan or air conditioning immediately after showering.

How can mothers boost their milk supply naturally?

Is it wise for mothers to shorten their confinement period?

Completing the full 30-day confinement period is recommended, as this time is vital for restoring Qi, replenishing blood loss, and strengthening your body.

How do I recover faster during confinement?

Are bird's nests and chicken essences recommended during confinement?

You can incorporate chicken essence starting from the second week postpartum. However, wait until any swelling has reduced before consuming bird's nest. If you have a sensitive digestive system, it's better to avoid bird's nest altogether.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique conditions, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine today.